Craving a taste of autumn without the guilt? These Baked Pumpkin Donuts are your answer! Fluffy, flavorful, and subtly sweet, they’re everything you love about fall, baked to perfection and packed with wholesome ingredients. Skip the deep fryer and dive into these healthier, delicious treats!
What are Baked Pumpkin Donuts?
Have you ever wondered how a simple spice and a humble gourd could create a dessert so universally loved? These are fluffy spiced donuts, but what’s in a name anyway? Did some mischievous baker accidentally swap a fried donut for a baked one, exclaiming, “Eureka! A healthy alternative!” Or perhaps, a pumpkin patch fairy whispered the secret recipe in a dream? Who knows! There is a story about farmer Jake, a renowned pumpkin farmer and his wife Nancy.
Nancy was known in the village for her delicious recipe which was a favourite between farmers who used to say ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.’ Well, whatever the origin, these Baked Pumpkin Donuts are calling your name! Forget the mystery; grab your apron and let’s bake up some autumn magic together!
Key Ingredients for Baked Pumpkin Donuts:
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful fall treats.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend): Forms the structure of the donuts.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the donuts rise and become light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Further aids in leavening, providing a slightly tangy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and that classic pumpkin spice flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with its nutty, aromatic notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: A touch of spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and moisture.
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a molasses-like flavor and contributes to a softer texture.
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, providing moisture, flavor, and color. Make sure it’s pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling!
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce: Adds moisture and helps reduce the amount of oil needed.
- 1/4 cup milk or non-dairy milk: Adds moisture and binds the ingredients together.
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or vegetable oil: Contributes to tenderness and flavor.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For a sweet and smooth glaze.
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or non-dairy milk: To adjust the consistency of the glaze.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Enhances the glaze flavor. Sprinkle toppings: Cinnamon, chopped nuts, sprinkles.
How to Make Baked Pumpkin Donuts
Get ready for a super simple, delicious, and satisfying treat! These Baked Pumpkin Donuts are incredibly easy to make. The recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick breakfast treat. The donut boasts a soft and cakey texture. They’re a delightful alternative to traditional fried donuts.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan well. Alternatively, you can use a muffin tin lined with paper liners.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Be sure to whisk well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, applesauce, coconut or vegetable oil, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Ensure the sugars are fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix! Overmixing can result in tough donuts. The batter will be slightly thick.
- Fill the Donut Pan: Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a large zip-top bag. Snip off the corner of the bag and pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full. Alternatively, you can spoon the batter into the pan.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Watch them carefully, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
- Cool: Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from sticking and allows them to cool evenly.
- Make the Glaze (Optional): While the donuts are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth. Add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Glaze and Decorate: Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Sprinkle with your favorite toppings, such as cinnamon sugar, chopped nuts, or sprinkles. You can also drizzle the glaze over the donuts if preferred.
- Enjoy: Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Baked Pumpkin Donuts!
Why You’ll Love These Baked Pumpkin Donuts
These Baked Pumpkin Donuts hit all the right notes! The best part is that delicious pumpkin-cinnamon spice blend. Ditch the expensive bakery runs because these donuts are surprisingly affordable to make at home. The best part, the customization is wide! Experiment with different glazes and toppings – from a simple cinnamon sugar coating to a decadent maple frosting.
If you’re itching for more donut-inspired goodness, why not try our apple cider donuts? They offer another taste of fall in a similar, delightful package! So, go ahead, bake up a batch and treat yourself to a taste of autumn heaven.
What to Serve Baked Pumpkin Donuts With:
These Baked Pumpkin Donuts make a delightful treat on their own, but they pair perfectly with several other items. Serve them alongside a warm cup of coffee or a spiced latte for a comforting breakfast or brunch. They’re also great accompanied by a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert you and your family won’y forget. You can also serve these a cheese board.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Baked Pumpkin Donuts:
Here are some tips to ensure your Baked Pumpkin Donuts turn out perfectly every time:
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough donuts. Mix until just combined.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground or recently purchased spices will have a more potent flavor than older spices.
- Grease the Pan Well: To prevent the donuts from sticking, grease the donut pan generously with cooking spray or butter.
- Cool Completely Before Glazing: Make sure the donuts are completely cool before glazing, otherwise, the glaze will melt and run off.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet donut, reduce the amount of sugar by a tablespoon or two.
- Gluten-Free Option: For gluten-free donuts, use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries to the batter for added flavor and texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
To keep your Baked Pumpkin Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing:
- Allow the donuts to cool completely.
- Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid.
- Transfer the frozen donuts to an airtight freezer bag or container.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating:
- To thaw frozen donuts, place them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
- To reheat, you can microwave them for a few seconds until warmed through. Alternatively, you can warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.
Final Thoughts:
These Baked Pumpkin Donuts are the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall without compromising your health. They’re easy to make, customizable, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, they’re sure to become a new favorite!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
FAQs:
Q: Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
A: No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which will alter the flavor and texture of the donuts. Use pure pumpkin puree.
Q: Can I make these donuts in a muffin tin?
A: Yes, you can bake the batter in a muffin tin lined with paper liners. The baking time may be slightly longer.
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, but the donuts may be slightly denser. You may also need to add a tablespoon or two of extra milk to compensate for the absorption of the whole wheat flour.
Q: Can I make these donuts vegan?
A: Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use non-dairy milk. Ensure your sugar is also vegan-friendly.
Q: How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the pan?
A: Grease the donut pan well with cooking spray or butter and ensure the donuts are completely cool before removing them from the pan.
Q: Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
A: Absolutely! Add about 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolate pumpkin donut treat.